Whitt Continues Racing on West Coast; Receives Award for his Achievements in Indiana; Prepares for Turkey Night Grand Prix and a shot at USAC National Midget Title

Cole Whitt never stops racing.  While many race teams and drivers have packed it in for the year, Cole and a group of other drivers continue to compete wherever they can find a race.  For Cole a late Fall Saturday night in Southern California means let’s find a race!  This past Saturday found Cole and Keith Kunz Motorsports racing for nothing more than bragging rights and seat time at a local race at Perris Auto Speedway on the fast, high banked dirt track.  Cole met up with many of his USAC National competitors on this night for a race that turned into one of the best races of the season.

 

After qualifying Cole was 10th quick in the 31 car field.  After missing his qualifying start, Cole was only able to take one lap instead of the customary 2 laps allowed.  Once in the heat race Cole would start 4th and had a convincing win by over a straight away over the field.   Cole was able to run both high and low throughout practice, qualifying, and the heat race.  This ability to use the sprint car would pay dividends in the feature from the pole position.  Cole was able to start well and secure the lead.  The race, however, was a duel, Cole fought a hard battle with the leaders exchanging slide jobs throughout and battling a wicked cushion which caused all the cars to bike several times.  Each competitor drove a clean competitive race.  After 25 laps and a broken brake rotor, Cole drove to a third place finish after challenges throughout the event.  

Another great part of this past week for Cole was an award for his 2008 season in the Midwest.  Cole Whitt was voted the “Most Improved Driver” by the 2009 Hoosier Auto Race Fans.  This award is an honor for Cole and his entire support system that verifies his hard work and dedication.  

Moving on to the season finale, Cole still has unfinished business.  The Agajanaian family promoted Turkey Night Grand Prix will take place next week at Toyota Speedway at Irwindale, Ca.   Cole will race two events.  The first is a 40 lap 360 cubic inch Western States USAC sprint car, and in addition the event will also host the 98 lap USAC National Midget Series finale.  For Cole Whitt, this event will be one that holds the opportunity to capture a national championship at 17 years old.  This race will be one “not to miss” on the half-mile pavement in Irwindale.